Fire crews from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service are tackling a thatched cottage blaze in Calbourne this evening (Sunday).
Multiple fire appliances from several stations across the Island are making their way to Elm Lane, where a thatched-roofed cottage is well-alight.
Firefighters were mobilised to the incident – the first thatch fire in over 10 years – at around 19:10.
The characterful stone cottage is located approximately 100 yards from the junction with Middle Road.
Elm Lane has been blocked by fire appliances in both directions meaning motorists are having to divert locally.
UPDATE @ 19:45 – 4 fire appliances are now on scene alongside a Water Carrier from Freshwater and an Aerial Ladder Platform from Ryde.
Crews are using main jets and hose reels to dowse the flames, with at least 8 breathing apparatus being utilised in rotation. Firefighters are also using a 13.5m ladder to reach the ridge of the roof to aid with the removal of the thatch and dampen down hot spots.
At the rear of the property, firefighters are using ladders and hose reel jets.
Fire hydrants are being utilised in the area which may result in residents seeing a reduction in water pressure or discolouration of water.
UPDATE @ 20:05 – A spokesperson for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed appliances from Newport, Freshwater, Cowes and East Cowes are in attendance. This now includes 2 water carriers from both Freshwater and Ventnor.
An operational commander from the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service has arrived at the scene, along with several fire officers.
UPDATE @ 20:10 – Island Echo can confirm that resources from the mainland are being brought over to the Island with several appliances and the Incident Command Unit now waiting at Southampton for the next available ferry.
LIVE FROM THE SCENE:
UPDATE @ 21:49 – Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service is advising locals to keep their windows shut as the fire is continued to be brought under control.
The incident is expected to be protracted for several hours, with crews remaining on scene throughout the night and tomorrow morning.
The Isle of Wight Ambulance Service has confirmed that their attendance is for precautionary measures and that there have been no casualties thus far.
UPDATE MONDAY @ 06:50 – The incident continues as the sun rises on a new day, with firefighters having worked through the night.
Several crews remain on scene and now face battling the elements as well as the fire as strong winds and heavy rain hit the Island.
At the height of the fire, the incident went to Make Pumps 7 with 1 Aerial Ladder Platform, 2 Water Carriers and the Incident Command Unit from the mainland.
UPDATE @ 08:10 – It has been confirmed that the fire is now out, but crews are expected to remain on scene as they dampen down and check for hotspots.
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ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
I hope there are no casualties
Well goes without saying doesn’t it ?
Thank you for stateing the obvious.
Next time you pass any of the fire stations and they are collecting for their benevolent fund, chuck some money in the bucket. THEY ARE WORTH IT.
How absolutely devastating 🙁 Hope nobody hurt.
DiscoMbobulated?